Near to the summit she heard steps behind her, a man's steps, light and very rapid.

She knew the foot at once and walked the faster.
"If it's me he's wanting, he can run for it," she thought, smiling.
Archie overtook her like a man whose mind was made up.
"Miss Kirstie," he began.
"Miss Christina, if you please, Mr.Weir," she interrupted.

"I canna bear the contraction." "You forget it has a friendly sound for me.

Your aunt is an old friend of mine, and a very good one.

I hope we shall see much of you at Hermiston ?" "My aunt and my sister-in-law doesna agree very well.